KATHMANDU: Countries around the world observe World Telecommunication and Information Society Day every year on May 17.
The day highlights the positive impact of the internet and information and communication technology (ICT) on society and the global economy.
The theme for World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2026 is “Strengthening digital lifelines for a resilient and connected world.”
The observance also draws attention to the “digital divide” — the gap between people who have access to digital technologies such as the internet, computers, and smartphones and those who do not. It particularly reflects disparities in internet access, digital literacy, technological skills, and access to information.
People living in remote and rural areas often lack the same level of access to digital services and infrastructure available in urban centers, where internet connectivity and online services are more widely accessible.
World Telecommunication Day has been observed since 1969 to mark the founding of the International Telecommunication Union and the signing of the first International Telegraph Convention in 1865.
The day was formally recognized by the ITU’s Plenipotentiary Conference held in Malaga-Torremolinos, Spain, in 1973 through Resolution No. 46.
In 2005, the World Summit on the Information Society called on the United Nations General Assembly to declare May 17 as World Information Society Day. The proposal was approved in 2006 with the aim of raising awareness about issues related to the information society and the growing importance of information technology.
According to the United Nations, the main objective of the day is to promote awareness of the opportunities and benefits created by digital communication and technological advancement.
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